Congleton Golf Club’s much-loved Rowleys Final proved once again that a little bad weather is no match for good company and great competition.
Originally scheduled for the end of October, the 2025 final eventually took place on Sunday, 29th March, and it was well worth the wait (ITALICS writes Mike Dines).
With a shotgun start at 9.30am, 51 players set off around the course, all with an eye on the prizes — and perhaps one eye on the sky. The conditions held just long enough before the rain made its presence felt on the back nine, but if anything, it only added to the character of the day.
By the time players returned to the clubhouse, soaked but smiling, they were greeted with a welcome sight: hot pie, chips and peas, and the chance to relive the day over a well-earned drink.
Before the prizes were handed out, there was the traditional and ever-popular “Unlock the Lock.”
Throughout the year, players had entered the raffle in the hope of holding the lucky key.
One by one, envelopes were opened until Mark Copestick stepped forward and struck gold — unlocking the prize and taking home £500 to a rousing cheer from the clubhouse.
Proceedings were then handed over to the ever-entertaining Joe Brough, whose role as master of ceremony continues to be a highlight in its own right. His humour and delivery would not look out of place on a professional stage, and he once again set the tone perfectly for the prize presentation.
Presentation
On the golfing side, Andy Barnes emerged as the overall winner on the day — a fine achievement in testing conditions.
He was closely followed by Nick Worrall in second place, with Joe Brough himself taking third.
Matt Quinn, Lee Elliot, Tim Borrow and Phil Green completed the prize list, underlining the competitive depth within the field.
Not every prize was about excellence, however, and the Rowleys Final has always embraced its lighter side.
The “Rowleys Rabbit” (awarded to the player with the lowest score) went to Brandon Swinnerton, whose 16 points earned him the only physical trophy of the day, along with generous applause and good-natured appreciation from his fellow members.
There were plenty of other notable performances. Bill Hunter impressed with both best front nine and a nearest-the-pin win, while Randall Evans claimed best back nine.
Anthony Walton was recognised for consistency across the year with the best 12 scores, and Simon Smith and Jack Wilson shared the accolade for the most twos over the season.
On the day itself, several players added their names to the twos list, including Dave Bailey, Graham Podmore and Andy Boughey.
The team event was won by Andy Barnes, Mick Baker, Ade Slaney and Lee Elliot, rounding off a strong showing for Barnes.
Spanish trip
Meanwhile, the Rowleys’ international flavour continued with its Spanish trip competition, where Mark Copestick added to his earlier success by taking first place, followed by Ian Pickup and Craig Andrews.
Behind every successful event lies a great deal of unseen effort. Dave Bailey deserves particular recognition for his organisation and commitment in keeping the Rowleys running throughout the year. His work ensures that what started as a simple weekly gathering has grown into one of the club’s most anticipated competitions.
Thanks are also due to the clubhouse and bar staff, and Nick Worrall with the greens team, who presented the course superbly despite challenging weather in the lead-up to the event.
• The Rowleys competition itself has deep roots at Congleton Golf Club. Originally established by the late Ken Rowley, it continues to be played every Thursday evening through the summer, bringing members together in a relaxed but competitive Stableford format under the watchful eye of Joe Brough.
Anyone interested in joining or finding out more about the club can call 01260 273 540 or visit congletongolfclub.co.uk.
